6 steps to a water-wise garden

Jim McCausland

Here's how to create a beautiful, easy-care landscape that saves water, too

Nan Sterman,

Follow these guidelines to create the most water-efficient garden possible.

1. Consider the soilMost landscape plants establish faster when planted in native soils without the addition of amendments. If your soil is sandy or rocky, you may need to add compost. Annuals, thirstier perennials, lawns, and vegetables benefit from the addition of compost.

2. Choose the right plantsConsider natives or introductions from other Mediterranean climates that have similar rainfall and soil conditions.

3. Group plantsSite plants with similar water, soil, and light needs together (in areas often referred to as "zones"). Place the most colorful (often the thirstiest) groupings near outdoor living areas.

4. Irrigate efficientlyUse drip irrigation or low-flow spray heads to deliver water directly to the root zone without the overspray or runoff typical of conventional sprinklers.

5. Water deeplyIrrigate established plants thoroughly but infrequently to encourage roots to grow downward; they will be buffered from the wet-dry cycle typical of the upper soil area and may even tap into groundwater.